Rich Vanilla Pudding Parfait

Name: Rich Vanilla Pudding Parfait
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup granola; 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

I absolutely love creating this Rich Vanilla Pudding Parfait because it brings together the simple pleasures of rich vanilla flavor with the delightful textures of layered ingredients. The creamy pudding pairs beautifully with fresh fruit and crunchy granola, making it a perfect dessert or snack option that never fails to impress. With just a few easily sourced ingredients, I can whip up this elegant treat that satisfies both my sweet tooth and my need for a refreshing bite. It’s a classic that truly stands the test of time!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:03:28.973Z

Every time I make this Rich Vanilla Pudding Parfait, I'm reminded of the sweet aromas wafting through my kitchen, making it hard to wait for it to set. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the layered parfaits come together so seamlessly; the contrast of textures creates a beautiful presentation. Just once, I experimented with adding a touch of cinnamon to the pudding, which transformed the flavor profile into something truly memorable!

When making the parfait, I always suggest using fresh ingredients. The ripe fruits bring a burst of natural sweetness that complements the rich vanilla pudding ideally. For an extra layer of flavor, consider a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top, which adds a delightful crunch and elevates the dessert. You won’t regret trying this small twist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich taste with a hint of vanilla that's simply irresistible
Versatile layering options with your favorite fruits and toppings
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Vanilla Pudding

The quality of your vanilla pudding hinges on the ingredients you choose. Opt for pure vanilla extract rather than imitation for a richer flavor. Not only does the vanilla provide aromatic depth, but it also balances the sweetness of the sugar. If you're feeling adventurous, consider infusing fresh vanilla beans instead; the tiny specks of vanilla seeds bring a luxurious look and taste that's hard to resist.

While thickening the pudding, keep a close eye on the heat; medium is usually ideal, but adjusting slightly higher can speed up the process. Just be cautious not to let the mixture boil vigorously. You'll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds a line when you swipe your finger through it. This visual cue is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Layering Techniques for the Parfait

The beauty of the parfait comes in its layers, so take care to mind the distribution of your ingredients. Start with a generous scoop of pudding, then gently spoon in the whipped cream to maintain its airy texture. Avoid overmixing once you introduce any layers, as maintaining a contrast between the smooth pudding and fluffy cream enhances the sensory experience with each spoonful.

For added flavor, think creatively with your berry layers. If you want a zingy twist, try macerating the strawberries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice beforehand. This process draws out their juices and softens their texture, giving them a more pronounced flavor. Additionally, feel free to substitute the granola with crushed cookies or nuts if you’re looking for a different crunch or texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Rich Vanilla Pudding Parfait:

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup granola
2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start assembling your parfait!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Rich Vanilla Pudding Parfait:

Prepare the Vanilla Pudding

In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk together over medium heat until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Cool the Pudding

Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until fully chilled.

Layer the Parfait

In serving glasses, layer the vanilla pudding with whipped cream, granola, and mixed berries. Start with pudding, then whipped cream, followed by a layer of granola and berries. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full.

Serve and Enjoy

Once layered, serve immediately or chill for an additional 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Enjoy your delicious Rich Vanilla Pudding Parfait!

Be sure to enjoy this parfait fresh for the best flavor and texture!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try infusing the milk with a vanilla bean before cooking. Additionally, you can substitute the granola with crushed cookies for a different texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Rich Vanilla Pudding Parfait is a great make-ahead option, allowing you to prep it the night before. The pudding itself can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, covered to prevent it from forming a skin. Once layered with whipped cream and other ingredients, it's best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture, but it can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours if necessary.

If you find yourself with leftover parfaits, consider separating the layers before storing. This prevents sogginess of the granola and keeps the freshness of the berries intact. Just reassemble the layers right before serving for the best crunch and flavor.

Customizing Your Parfait

One of the delightful aspects of this parfait is its versatility. Experiment with various fruits like diced mango, banana slices, or even tropical fruits like kiwi for an exotic flair. Each fruit brings its unique taste and freshness, which complements the creamy vanilla pudding beautifully. Just be cautious with fruits that release moisture quickly, like watermelon; they may alter the texture of your parfait if layered too soon.

You can also swap out granola for different toppings based on dietary preferences. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free granola or even toasted oats. Those on a dairy-conscious diet can use dairy-free whipped cream options and alternative milk like almond or coconut milk, ensuring you still achieve that satisfying creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, almond milk can be used as a substitute, but the texture may differ slightly.

→ How long can I store the prepared parfait?

The parfait is best eaten fresh, but you can store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use frozen berries?

Certainly! Just be sure to let them thaw and drain excess moisture before layering.

→ Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure that the granola you use is gluten-free, or you can use gluten-free cookie crumbles.